Marilyn Manson set to return to music following sexual assault allegations
After several years of legal battles, and multiple accusations of sexual assault and misconduct, Marilyn Manson has struck a new record deal, with the German independent record label Nuclear Blast.
On social media on May 15th, Manson along with Nuclear Blast shared a short video which seemed to give a preview new music. The track which was teased online is set to be Manson’s first official release since We Are Chaos, the studio album released by the Ohio-born singer back in 2020.
At the time of writing, it is unclear whether this new release will form the basis of a full-length album, or simply a single release. Either way, the lyrics, “Keep sleeping, I’ll make you dream of me”, can be heard on the teaser video.
Back in 2021, the singer’s former fiancée Evan Rachel Wood, along with various other previous partners of Manson, accused the musician of countless instances of sexual abuse, rape and assault. Following Wood’s accusations, over a dozen other women came forward with their own accusations of sexual misconduct and psychological abuse against Manson.
In the months that followed the initial accusation, multiple civil lawsuits were filed against the musician, and an investigation into alleged domestic violence was launched by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. As a result, Manson was dropped by Loma Vista Recordings, as well as by his manager and talent agent. Many of the lawsuits and prosecution brought against Manson were dismissed due to the statute of limitations on the alleged crimes, while others were settled out-of-court. Manson denies any wrongdoing.
Following these settlements and dismissals, Manson brought a defamation case against Evan Wood, the original accuser. Within the suit, Manson claimed that Wood’s accusations had led to the destruction of Manson’s career and reputation, due to his portrayal “as a rapist and abuser”. However, these charges were dismissed by the court, with Manson ordered to pay the legal fees of Wood.
Despite seemingly returning to the world of music, with new material on the horizon as well as an upcoming tour with Five Finger Death Punch, Manson’s legal troubles are certainly not behind him. Next year, he will face a suit brought by former assistant Ashley Walters, who alleged the singer would “offer her up” to his friends and associates. Initially, the case was dismissed, but has been reinstated following an appeal, and is set to be heard in June 2025. He denies the allegations.
For help, advice or more information regarding sexual harassment, assault and rape in the UK, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN.